Grilled Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce is a flavorful and satisfying Greek-inspired dish. Tender, marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, then wrapped in warm pita bread and topped with a refreshing tzatziki sauce, crisp vegetables, and tangy feta cheese. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or a delicious dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Mediterranean flavors
- A healthier alternative to traditional gyros made with lamb
- Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients
- Customizable with your favorite toppings
- Perfect for meal prep or family dinners
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Dried oregano
- Ground cumin
- Smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper
- Greek yogurt
- Cucumber, grated
- Fresh dill, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Lemon juice
- Pita bread
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Romaine lettuce, chopped
- Feta cheese, crumbled
Directions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts, coat well, and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, fresh dill, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Assemble the Gyros: Warm the pita bread on the grill or in a pan. Place sliced chicken on the pita, then add cherry tomatoes, red onion, romaine lettuce, and crumbled feta. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce.
- Serve: Fold the pita around the fillings and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 40 minutes (including marination)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the marinade for a bit of heat.
- Different Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken and toppings in a lettuce wrap instead of pita.
- Extra Creamy Tzatziki: Mix in a tablespoon of sour cream or mayonnaise for a richer sauce.
- Vegan Twist: Use marinated and grilled portobello mushrooms instead of chicken, and replace yogurt with dairy-free Greek yogurt.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Tzatziki sauce should be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: The marinated raw chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds. Avoid overheating to prevent dryness.
FAQs
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes, you can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
What is tzatziki sauce made of?
Tzatziki sauce is made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh dill.
Can I use store-bought tzatziki sauce?
Yes, but homemade tzatziki has a fresher taste and allows you to control the ingredients.
What type of pita bread should I use?
Look for soft, Greek-style pita bread, which is thicker and holds fillings better.
How can I make this meal ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken and prepare the tzatziki sauce in advance. Grill the chicken just before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, but you can use gluten-free pita or serve the fillings in a lettuce wrap.
What can I serve with chicken gyros?
They pair well with Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or hummus with pita chips.
Can I add more toppings?
Yes, try adding olives, cucumbers, or pickled peppers for extra flavor.
How do I prevent my pita from tearing?
Warm the pita slightly before assembling to make it more flexible and easier to fold.
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce is a delicious and versatile meal that brings the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. Whether you enjoy it as a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this dish is sure to be a favorite. Try different variations, make it ahead for convenience, and enjoy a healthy homemade gyro anytime!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minute
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Description
Enjoy these delicious Grilled Chicken Gyros, packed with juicy marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy tzatziki sauce wrapped in warm pita bread. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 4 pita breads
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes.
- Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Slice into strips.
- Warm the pita bread and layer with chicken, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and tzatziki.
- Wrap and serve immediately!
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with lamb or beef for variety.
- Serve with a side of fries or Greek salad for a complete meal.
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